Committee approves Sen. Brenner bill to expand consideration for proposed summer camp rules
AUGUSTA — On Thursday, the Health and Human Services Committee voted in favor of a bill from Sen. Stacy Brenner, D-Scarborough, that would expand consideration for proposed rule changes regarding summer camps in Maine, with the goal of creating a more open dialogue between camps and state regulators. An amended version of LD 2230, “An Act to Change Department of Health and Human Services Rules Regarding Youth Camps to Major Substantive Rules,” received unanimous, bipartisan support from those present.
“Summer camps are a major part of our state’s economy. When I heard that what were clearly well-intentioned rule changes would have had a major impact on their ability to operate, I knew I had to help find a way forward,” said Sen. Brenner. “State regulators and summer camp operators have enjoyed an open, respectful relationship. In particular, I know we’re all united in our desire to keep kids safe. The discussion around this bill proved that. I’m eager for the productive conversations that will now follow.”
Recently, a series of changes were proposed for rules governing youth camps in Maine, including rules that would impact how camps can hire employees. In particular, the changes would require summer camps to fingerprint employees. This would create a significant hurdle for achieving adequate staffing levels, considering many summer camps rely on international workers and volunteers. Camps are already required to conduct background checks on workers.
As amended, LD 2230, directs the department to convene a stakeholder group in advance of the rulemaking and to actively involve the summer camp community in the drafting of the rules. The working group would help to ensure safety standards are up-to-date without placing an unmanageable burden on summer camp operators.
Sen. Brenner is the co-owner of Broadturn Farm, which has in the past hosted a nine-week youth summer camp.
LD 2230 now faces votes in the Senate and House.
